Anti-racism rally held at Belfast City Hall
Protesters gathered at Belfast City Hall on Saturday for a demonstration against racism.The Stand Up to Racism rally was co-organised by United Against Racism Belfast, Reclaim the Agenda and the trade union Nipsa.Organisers said the march was to show solidarity with migrant workers and refugees.Northern Ireland has seen disorder and a spate of racist attacks in recent weeks.
The violence started nearly two weeks in Ballymena, County Antrim after a peaceful protest over an alleged sexual assault in the town.The disorder later spread to other areas including Larne, Londonderry, Belfast and Portadown on subsequent nights.
Speaking at Saturday's anti-racism rally at Belfast City Hall, Helen Crickard from Reclaim the Agenda said it was about education not violence."We are disgusted violence against women and girls is being used in this way," she said.At the same location there was also an anti-immigration rally. Police vehicles were present to separate the two groups.The anti-racism rally was hosted by Northern Irish actor Lola Petticrew.David Calvert was among members of the public who attended."It's important to set an example. It's important for my kids to see me show solidarity with people who are here for sanctuary," he said.
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